Football and Faith: A Growing Legacy in India

In the heart of India, where football is more than just a game, a movement is taking root—one that extends beyond the field and into transformed lives. It is a story of passion, perseverance, and faith, woven together through the love of the sport and the message of Jesus Christ.

For nearly two decades, football academies launched by missionaries Theo and Valentina*, sent by the Brazilian Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA, ACEMBRAS), have impacted more than 30,000 boys and girls across 11 locations. More than just teaching the game, these academies have become centers of discipleship, raising new leaders who continue the mission of making disciples.

Krishna*, from Kolkata’s Lake Gardens area, grew up without any knowledge of the Bible. Like many boys in his neighborhood, he spent his time playing football and attending school, unaware that his life was about to change.

“In the year 2000, Theo and his friends came to our locality to teach football,” Krishna recalls. “They were Brazilian, and we were huge fans of Brazilian football. I joined the training—it was the first time I ever had real coaches.”

At first, language was a barrier, but the universal language of football bridged the gap. Between drills and matches, the coaches spoke about Jesus. Krishna admits he wasn’t interested at first, but something about Theo stood out.

“I started to wonder—why would someone from a faraway country come here, share his life, his food, and his love with us? That question led me to start attending the Bible meetings. It was a different experience, a place where I felt safe to share my own life.”

Little by little, the message of Christ took root. Krishna’s attitude changed, his relationships deepened, and his game improved. He even earned a place on a good team in the Kolkata league. His parents noticed the transformation, too.

Although an injury ended his playing career, God opened a new path—coaching. Today, Krishna trains kids in Pune and supports sports ministry in his community. “I tell them how Jesus can change lives because he changed mine.”

Srinath*, a first-year student from Sonarpur, also discovered faith through football. Born into a Hindu middle-class family, he never imagined that his love for the sport would introduce him to Jesus.

“The football practice was organized by the church. They also had a Saturday school, so I started going. Our coach taught us that a good life is only with God. That’s how I slowly learned about Jesus.”

Srinath’s curiosity turned into conviction. He began attending Sunday services, where he learned that Jesus is the only God who sacrificed his life for him.

“I was baptized and accepted Jesus as my Savior. Now, I try to live according to God’s Word. But I know that many still don’t know who he is. Just as I found God, I want other players and kids to find him, too. That’s how I want to serve.”

Fifteen-year-old Shiva*, a tenth grader, has been part of the soccer academy and Kid’s Church for the past six years. When he first joined, he struggled to play—even passing the ball was a challenge. Now, he dreams of playing for a professional club.

Yet Shiva’s biggest transformation wasn’t on the field—it was in his heart.

“I used to get angry very easily, always fighting with others. But when I started listening to Bible stories and reading the Bible, my life began to change. Even my friends and relatives noticed.”

Shiva now prays that God will continue shaping him to be an example for others.

As India’s population increases by one million people per month, the need for hope and leadership has never been greater. Rama and Vishnu*, two local leaders who emerged from these academies, are now equipping the next generation of disciples through football and faith. With no formal curriculum, their approach remains simple yet powerful: they read the Bible with young players and allow the Holy Spirit to guide their growth.

“We just read the Bible with them,” they say. “There is no manual, just the Word of God.”

Recently, 20 former academy players reunited for a 7 v. 7 football match. The joy of the night wasn’t just about the game—it was about rekindled friendships and witnessing lives transformed by the Good News. Many of these young men are now discipling others, continuing the mission they once received.

Would you join in praying for Rama and Vishnu’s families as they lead this movement? Would you consider partnering financially to support this growing mission? In a country where traditional missions face restrictions, football and discipleship have become powerful tools for spreading the gospel and making disciples who make disciples.

*Names have been replaced due to safety reasons.